What is Full Coverage Car Insurance?

You may have heard people, and even insurance agents, talk about full coverage car insurance as the best way to protect your car — but full coverage isn’t really a type of car insurance. It’s a group of coverages that work together to protect you and your car as well as others and their property if something happens.

When someone refers to full coverage auto insurance, they usually mean that the policy includes at least the three main types of car insurance coverage:

1. Liability insurance protects you if you cause damage to others and/or their property. Most states require a certain amount of bodily injury liability and property damage liability protection for your car.
   
2. Comprehensive insurance is optional protection that covers your car for things like theft, storm damage, falling objects and contact with animals.
   
3. Collision insurance is optional protection that helps pay to repair or replace your car if you hit another car or object, such as a tree or guardrail.

Depending on the insurance company and the state you live in, “full coverage” (that is, a policy that covers all your needs) may also include other car insurance coverages such as medical payments, personal injury, uninsured and underinsured motorists, rental reimbursements and more.

Do I need full coverage auto insurance?

The amount and types of car insurance coverage you get should be based on your specific situation. If you have a new car or limited finances, more coverage can give you peace of mind. But if you could replace your car out of pocket, you might not need some optional coverages.

Things to consider when deciding if you need full coverage:

• Age, condition and value of your vehicle
• Ability to pay out-of-pocket
• Affordability of your deductible and premium
• Whether you’re financing or leasing your vehicle
• Your risk tolerance

What does full coverage insurance include?

No insurance company can guarantee that you will be fully covered in case of a loss. But optional car insurance coverages and policy endorsements can often help limit your risk if something unexpected does occur.

Also think about your liability limits. The state minimum liability coverage might not be enough if you get into a major accident like a multi-car pileup.

What are car insurance endorsements?

Endorsements are add-ons that personalize your auto insurance policy to meet your needs. COUNTRY Financial® has a unique endorsement called The Keeper®*, which helps protect your new car if it’s totaled in an accident. 

An experienced COUNTRY Financial rep can help you find the level of coverage you need and any endorsements that make sense for you. Find your local agent to get started.

Updated 10-2-23